PLANTS AND TREES IN INTERIORS

A much debated issue for some designers, mostly architects, is the role of plants in interiors. Some argue that trees belong to nature, so an interior should stand alone on its own merits; after all trees were meant to grow outside. While others claim plants can soften a space and hint of nature outside.

Plants, especially Ficus Benjamina commonly known as Weeping Fig or Ficus Tree, have been used extensively in interiors in the past. Characteristic is architectural photography of the 1960s through 1980s, where shots showed the specific tree in the interior space. In residential applications bonsai and bamboo plants appear to be more common today. Bamboo plants in water in tall clear vases, are an intersting option and require minimal caring. However nowadays, especially in the minimalism approach, interiors tend to be stark; letting the space “speak” for itself. The author has used Ficus in his interiors, however he has has essentially ceased that practice.

  

Interior trees and plants do require a lot of caring to appear healthy, otherwise we’ll end up with curled, droopy, drab-looking leaves, yellow leaves and leaves on the floor; which doesn’t really compliment any space, for if anything it impacts it negatively (Watering on a schedule, applying fertilizer, dusting the leaves, treating insect infestation, etc., involve a lot of work for working singles or busy families).

Also, not widely known, this particular tree as well as others, is a major source of allergens, and should be avoided by allergy (“hay fever”) or asthma sufferers. Little children or pets tend to touch or even taste some leaves, which in some cases are poisonous. Toxic houseplants include oleander (very toxic), lilly, pothos, philodendron, caladium, etc. 

While trees may still be used in Contract Design, for example in hotels and building entrance lobbies, they’re seldom used in residential interiors any more. However flowers, natural or dry, will always be used to decorate Dining Rooms tables, whether celebrating a special occasion or just to make us feel good. On the other hand, synthetic (mostly plastic) flowers and plants should be avoided, for besides being outdated they’re not healthy for us.

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